ABOUT THE MUSEUM

Since opening in 2004, the Koshland Science Museum of the National Academy of Sciences has received national and international attention for its innovative and content-rich multimedia exhibits and programs.

The museum invites teens and adults to interact with today’s issues in a thought-provoking setting. Whether exploring on your own or with friends, the museum encourages visitors to use science to solve problems and engage in stimulating conversations with others.

The Koshland Science Museum is named after Marian Koshland, an immunologist and molecular biologist who conducted groundbreaking research in the behavior of antibodies. The museum was developed through a gift from her husband, Daniel Koshland, a molecular biologist who specialized in the study of enzymes and bacteria.

Exhibits

The Koshland Science Museum offers unique science exhibits with interactive displays that illustrate the role of science in informing policies that affect our lives. At the Koshland Science Museum, visitors can explore these exhibits and more:

Earth Lab: Degrees of Change —Delve into the causes of climate change, its impacts, and potential solutions.

Life Lab - Explore the science of healthy living and learn how your brain works.

Idea Lab – Immerse yourself in the culture of resilience in this multimedia space and give us your feedback.

Visit The Koshland Experience page of the Plan your Visit section to learn more about museum exhibits and experience. Information about visiting the museum, including location and admission details, can also be found in the Plan Your Visit section.

Exhibit Development

The Koshland Science Museum relies on participation of science experts and the wealth of information in reports by the National Research Council and Institute of Medicine to develop exhibit content. Exhibit content is thoroughly and frequently vetted and reviewed throughout development. A core group of museum staff members facilitates all aspects of exhibit selection, development, and fabrication.

The Museum Advisory Board, acting on behalf of the National Academy of Sciences’ Council, approves exhibition topics and overall content.

Committees of science experts distill this work into technical outlines that provide the foundation for each exhibition, ensuring scientific accuracy.

Committees and museum staff consult dozens of additional science experts on specific aspects of each exhibition.

Exhibit designers interpret this guidance into visual exhibits.

Exhibit fabricators build the final exhibitions with production companies that specialize in multimedia, video, and computer interactive technology.

Exhibit concepts, designs, and prototypes are presented periodically to various focus groups whose feedback is evaluated by museum professionals and implemented where appropriate into the final exhibitions.

Programs and Events

The Koshland Science Museum offers engaging, interactive programs for teens and adults. Evening programs and special events provide a social setting for discussions about the role of research in our communities. Check out the schedule of upcoming programs.

Educational Programs

The Koshland Science Museum facilitates inquiry-based, structured experiences for high school students and offers self-guided or facilitated visits for other groups. Additional educational activities are also offered for groups, teachers, and school district coordinators. Please contact the museum's coordinator for more information about upcoming educational opportunities. For more information visit the Group Visits & Field Trips page.